Mayor makes call on election

COFFS HARBOUR’S mayor has ended months of speculation over whether he will contest the March State election.

In a statement issued this morning, Cr Keith Rhoades said: “My priorities have always been my wife and family first, public life second and my other community activities after that.

“To that end I have made the decision that I will not be contesting the upcoming state election. I feel very comfortable with my decision not to be a candidate.”

Cr Rhoades, who is also president of the NSW Local Government Association, said he was committed to working with whichever party won government for the betterment of the community.

He also said he had enjoyed standing as an Independent at the past two state elections and his passion had always been to represent the community at either a local or state level.

“Since the last state election I have been able to achieve more for our community at a state and federal level in my position as mayor as what I may have been able to achieve at different levels of government.

“Over the years I have been able to form solid working relationships with members of government and oppositions, again at a state and federal level. This has allowed me the opportunity to work directly with the decision makers in an effort to get results for our community.”